Free Makaton Learning Sessions at The Salvation Army, Fordingbridge

published on 28 Nov 2024

The Salvation Army church in Fordingbridge, in partnership with The Makaton Charity, has launched free Makaton learning sessions for the community in an initiative aimed at supporting people who have communication challenges, promoting inclusivity, and bringing people together in a fun and social environment.  

The lessons are held every Monday evening between 7pm and 8:30pm at The Salvation Army church at Roundhill, SP6 1AQ, and are open to everyone.  Sessions are led by expert trainer and director of Makaton Charity, Zanna Finnerty, who teaches participants conversational Makaton. Tea and coffee are on offer during lessons. 

Makaton is a unique language programme that combines signs, symbols, and speech to enable people to communicate in a different way It is designed to support spoken language. It is used by children and adults with communication or learning difficulties. 

Sharing his enthusiasm about this programme, Mike French, the Fordingbridge Salvation Army Corps Leader said; “We’re excited to offer these sessions as part of our commitment to support our community. When Zanna approached us to engage more people with Makaton, we knew it was a perfect fit. We want to help people who may struggle with every day communication feel included and understood.”

Fordingbridge Church
Lessons are held every Monday evening between 7pm and 8:30pm at The Salvation Army church, Fordingbridge.

Mike added that the initiative is deeply aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission of supporting people who may feel marginalised in society. Through this Makaton learning programme, he says, the church aims to create space where everyone can learn to communicate better and engage with those who face communication challenges. This is also an opportunity to learn a new skill while connecting with others in the community.

While the lessons are open to anyone in the local community, there are a limited number of places so if people would like to take part, they’re advised to book their space by contacting Zanna on 07500844084. 

For more information about the Makaton visit the Makaton Charity website: About Makaton.